Fort Belvoir
Fort Belvoir PCS Guide
Military Base History
U.S. Army Reserve Command Sgt. Maj. Brian Bertazon, center, Command Sergeant Major, Military Intelligence Readiness Command, stands during his retirement ceremony, Nov. 18, 2023. Family, friends and colleagues attended the event held at the historic Fort Belvoir, Va. Officers Club that marked...
Fort Belvoir began as Camp A. A. Humphreys in 1917, serving as a training site for U.S. Army engineers during World War I. The Army selected its location along the Potomac River for its proximity to Washington, D.C., and access to water for engineering exercises.
The camp's original mission was to support the Engineer School, which moved from Washington Barracks to the new site to expand its training capacity.
Major construction in the 1920s and 1930s transformed the camp into a permanent post. In 1935, the installation was renamed Fort Belvoir to honor the historic Belvoir plantation that once stood on the grounds.
During World War II, the fort became a vital training center, preparing tens of thousands of engineers and support troops for overseas deployment.
Throughout the Cold War, Fort Belvoir hosted a variety of technical and logistical units, including the Army Map Service and the Defense Logistics Agency. The base’s mission shifted toward research, development, and support functions.
In the early 21st century, the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process brought new commands and agencies to Fort Belvoir, including the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and the U.S. Army Cyber Command.
Today, Fort Belvoir is a critical hub for military logistics, intelligence, and administrative support. It houses over 145 mission partners and supports a diverse workforce of military personnel, civilians, and contractors.
The installation is a key economic and community anchor in Northern Virginia, reflecting its enduring importance to both the Army and the region.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Army Maj. Vincent Krause is a family nurse practitioner who provides primary care, physical examinations, diagnostic testing, and patient referrals for patients enrolled at the Munson Army Health Center. He first joined the Army as a med-surg nurse at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. After...
Major Units
U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command (INSCOM)
INSCOM conducts intelligence, security, and information operations for U.S. Army commanders and national decision makers, providing critical intelligence support at tactical, operational, and strategic levels.
U.S. Army Cyber Command (ARCYBER)
ARCYBER leads the Army’s cyberspace operations, defending Army networks and conducting offensive and defensive cyber missions to support operational readiness and national security.
U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID) Headquarters
CID investigates serious crimes involving Army personnel and property, providing criminal investigative support to commanders and law enforcement agencies worldwide.
Training Schools
Defense Acquisition University (DAU) – Fort Belvoir Campus
Overview
DAU provides professional education and training in acquisition, technology, and logistics, supporting military and civilian personnel involved in defense acquisition programs.
Course Length
Varies (short courses to several weeks)
Who Attends
Military and civilian acquisition professionals
U.S. Army Force Management School
Overview
This school trains Army personnel in force management processes, including organizational structure, requirements determination, and resource allocation.
Course Length
2-4 weeks (depending on course)
Who Attends
Army officers, NCOs, and civilians in force management roles
Arrival & In-Processing
COL Joe Messina, Fort Belvoir Garrison Commander, hosted the Military Partners' Lunch, to discuss operations with many of the 150 installation tenant agencies. Garrison Directors updated agencies on facility best practices, and CSM Garth Newell urged leaders to provide Soldier assistance to help...
Welcome to Fort Belvoir! Arriving at a new duty station is a big step for you and your family. Preparing your documents and understanding access procedures will help your check-in go smoothly. For more information, visit the official Fort Belvoir website.
Fort Belvoir’s primary entrance is the Tulley Gate, located at the base’s main access point. Tulley Gate operates 24/7 for all personnel and vehicles. Additional gates, such as Pence and Walker, have limited hours—check the base website for current times. All drivers and passengers must show a valid Military ID, CAC, or an approved visitor pass. State driver’s licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections at all gates. Security is a top priority, so allow extra time during peak hours. Visitors and family members without DoD credentials must stop at the Visitor Control Center to obtain a pass before entering the installation.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
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Birth Certificates (for dependents)
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Social Security Cards
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Vehicle Registration & Insurance
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Medical and Dental Records
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Proof of Housing (if applicable)
Fort Belvoir offers a sponsor program to help you settle in. Contact your gaining unit or the Fort Belvoir Relocation Readiness Program to request a sponsor. You can also fill out a sponsor request form through your unit’s S1 or by reaching out to the Army Community Service office for assistance.
Report to the Welcome Center, Building 213, near Tulley Gate, for in-processing. The Welcome Center is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. You’ll check in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices. Plan to complete most steps within 2–3 business days, but some appointments may require follow-up visits. Arrive early and bring all required documents to avoid delays.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside Tulley Gate, the main entrance to Fort Belvoir. The VCC operates Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, registering vehicles in DBIDS, and assisting with guest sponsorship. All visitors must check in at the VCC before entering the base.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
During the summer surge of Permanent-Change-of-Station moves for Army families, installations like Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, offer PCS Open House events where Soldiers and families can obtain information on programs and services. Army leadership is committed to improving Quality of Life for Soldiers in the areas of Housing, PCS Moves, Child and Youth Programs, and Spouse Employment. (U.S. Army Photo)
When receiving PCS orders to Fort Belvoir, act quickly to review your orders and contact the base Transportation Office. Decide whether you’ll use a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, a Personally Procured Move (PPM), or a combination. The Defense Personal Property System (DPS) is your main tool for scheduling and tracking your move—register early to avoid delays.
You are entitled to key benefits like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA). TLE helps offset lodging costs while you search for housing near Fort Belvoir. DLA assists with miscellaneous moving expenses. Use official sites to check your exact entitlements and rates. Fort Belvoir’s location near Washington, D.C. means high demand for housing and moving services, especially during summer—plan ahead and communicate with your sponsor for local insights.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a Fort Belvoir sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Book temporary lodging early—local hotels fill fast, especially in summer.
- Keep orders, IDs, and key documents with you at all times.
- Double-check your weight allowance before scheduling your HHG shipment.
- Photograph and inventory high-value items before pack-out.
- Plan pet accommodations in advance—some local rentals have restrictions.
- Use DPS to track your shipment and communicate with your moving company.
Important Forms & Links
Access and manage your move online.
Check current TLE, DLA, and travel rates.
Guidance and tools for every step of your move.
Installation-specific info for arriving personnel.
Schools & Childcare
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Fort Belvoir offers families a strong mix of on-base DoDEA schools and access to high-performing local districts. Families living on post can enroll their children in well-rated DoDEA schools, while those off base typically attend Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), known for academic excellence. The School Liaison Officer (SLO) is your go-to resource for navigating enrollment, special education services, and school transitions. Families can contact the SLO through the Fort Belvoir MWR website or by visiting the Army Community Service office on post.
On-Base Schools
Fort Belvoir Elementary School
DoDEA school on Fort Belvoir serving grades PreK through 6. The school features STEM programs and a diverse student body.
Fort Belvoir Upper School
Part of the DoDEA system, this upper elementary campus offers advanced academics and strong support for military families.
Childcare Options
Fort Belvoir Child Development Center (CDC)
The CDC offers full-day, part-day, and hourly care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The program is NAEYC-accredited and prioritizes military families.
School Age Center (SAC)
SAC provides before- and after-school care, homework help, and summer camps for school-age children. The program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation.
Fort Belvoir Youth Center
The Youth Center offers after-school programs, leadership clubs, and recreation for preteens and teens. Accredited and designed to support military youth development.
Local Schools
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS)
FCPS is one of Virginia's top-rated districts, known for strong academics, extensive AP and IB programs, and high graduation rates. GreatSchools.org gives many FCPS schools ratings of 8 or above.
Hayfield Secondary School
Hayfield serves grades 7-12 and is praised for its IB program, diverse clubs, and solid college prep. The school receives above-average reviews for academics and student support.
Mount Vernon High School
Mount Vernon High offers the IB Diploma, strong arts, and robust JROTC. It is recognized for supporting military-connected students and offers many extracurriculars.